The wait is over. The CDS 1 2026 final merit list was released by UPSC on 2 November 2026, and 243 candidates have made it to the final selection for IMA, INA and AFA. If you wrote the exam in April and then cleared your SSB interview, this is the list you were working towards. At Defence Dreamers, we have put everything about it in one place, so you can check the details without searching around.
Where to Download the CDS 1 2026 Final Merit List
UPSC has uploaded the merit list as a PDF on its official website, upsc.gov.in. The file carries the names and roll numbers of the selected candidates, arranged academy-wise. Download it only from the official site, because fake links start circulating on social media right after every result.
Direct link: Download the PDF here
Why This Result Matters
For most aspirants, the final list is the end of a long road: written exam, SSB, and months of waiting. Seeing your roll number there means the hardest filters are behind you. What remains is verification, medical and joining formalities, so it pays to stay organised.
CDS 1 2026 Result at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026 |
| Result Date | 2 November 2026 |
| Qualified Candidates | 243 |
| Selection Basis | Written exam and SSB interview |
| Written Exam Held | April 2026 |
| IMA Course | 162nd (DE) Course |
| INA | Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala |
| AFA Course | No. 221 F(P) Course |
| Status | Provisional |
| Official Website | upsc.gov.in |
How to Check the CDS 1 2026 Result
Checking takes under two minutes if you follow these steps:
- Open the official UPSC website, upsc.gov.in.
- Go to the Final Results section.
- Select Combined Defence Services Examination (I), 2026.
- Click the result link to open the merit list PDF.
- Press Ctrl + F and type your roll number or name.
- Check your status and save the PDF for future reference.
What the CDS 1 2026 Final Merit List Means for You
Before you celebrate too hard, remember that the CDS 1 2026 final merit list is provisional. Medical examination results are not considered while preparing it, so your candidature remains subject to verification of your date of birth and educational documents, and to the medical examination. Marks are not out yet either. UPSC will upload them on its website only after the final result of the OTA course is declared, so there is no need to panic if you cannot see them today.
Academy-Wise Courses Covered
The list covers three academies. Selected candidates are headed to the 162nd (DE) Course at the Indian Military Academy, the course at the Indian Naval Academy in Ezhimala, and the No. 221 F(P) Course at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad.
What to Do After the CDS 1 2026 Result
If your name is there, here is a simple to-do list:
- Match your name and roll number carefully with the PDF.
- Keep original educational and date of birth certificates ready.
- Submit the required documents to the concerned Headquarters.
- Follow every instruction issued by the defence authorities.
- Finish verification and joining formalities within the given timeline
Last Free SSB Batch by Doon Defence Dreamers: Starts 16 November 2026
Reading the CDS 1 2026 final merit list and wondering what comes next? If you have cleared the written exam of NDA, CDS or AFCAT, the SSB interview is your next big step. Doon Defence Dreamers, Best NDA Coaching in Dehradun is launching its last free SSB batch on 16 November 2026. Every SSB batch after this one will be paid, so this is your final chance to prepare with us at no cost.
Who can join: NDA, CDS and AFCAT 2 2026 written exam qualifiers.
Cash rewards for our students:
- ₹31,000 cash prize for every candidate who gets recommended in the SSB.
- ₹2,51,000 cash prize for the candidate who secures AIR 1.
Mistakes to Avoid After the Result
A few small errors can cause big problems at this stage:
- Trusting unofficial links or screenshots. Always cross-check on upsc.gov.in.
- Ignoring the document list. A missing certificate can create trouble later.
- Expecting marks immediately. They come later, after the OTA result.
- Dropping your fitness routine. Training academies expect you to be ready.
Did Not Find Your Name? Read This
It hurts, we know. But the CDS 1 2026 final merit list is a snapshot of one attempt, not a verdict on your dream. Go through your SSB feedback honestly, fix the weak areas, and start preparing for the next attempt without losing the momentum. Plenty of aspirants have worn the uniform after a second or third try.
CDS 1 2026 Final Merit List: FAQs
When was the CDS 1 2026 final merit list declared?
On 2 November 2026.
How many candidates qualified?
A total of 243 candidates qualified across the three merit lists.
Is the medical result included?
No. The medical examination result is not considered while preparing the merit lists.
Where can I download the CDS 1 2026 result?
From the official UPSC website, upsc.gov.in, in PDF format.
Final Words
Congratulations to every candidate who made it into the CDS 1 2026 final merit list. Keep your documents ready, follow the official instructions, and stay away from unverified updates. And if your written exam is cleared but SSB is still ahead, join our last free SSB batch starting 16 November 2026. Follow Defence Dreamers for result updates, strategy and study tips.
